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Blade Tension
Figure 31. Checking blade deflection.
Blade tension is one of the most critical factors
in the performance of your bandsaw. The blade
must be tight enough so it does not sway during
a cut, yet stay flexible enough to bend around
the wheels.
Many factors determine the ideal tension for
every situation. For example, consider the width
and sharpness of blade being used, the thickness
and hardness of the material being cut and the
feed rate at which it is cut when determining
tension.
To adjust blade tension:
1. Make sure bandsaw is unplugged from the
power source.
2. With the tensioning handle in down position,
rotate clockwise to tighten the blade.
Rotate the handle counterclockwise to
loosen the blade.
Note: Because of the many factors involved,
there is no concrete rule for blade tension.
However, there are two common methods for
adjustment: Sound and Deflection.
To tighten your blade by sound:
1. With the blade on both upper and lower
wheels, tighten blade moderately. Remove
the blade guard and clear the guide blocks
away from the blade.
2. Progressively increase the tension, while
plucking the blade along the way.
3. You want to achieve a tightness that resem-
bles a musical tone when the blade is
plucked. If the sound starts decreasing in
volume, the blade is too tight. Aim for the
clearest musical tone possible.
4. Keep in mind that different blade widths
will produce higher or lower tones.
To tighten your blade by deflection:
1. Raise the blade guard.
2. Tighten the blade so that it deflects
approximately
1
⁄4" with moderate pressure
with your finger. See Figure 31.
3. Because “moderate pressure” may differ
with every individual, this method may not
be strictly reliable by measurement.
4. Similar to adjusting the blade by sound, this
method will require trial and error practice.
NOTICE
The tensioning handle provides extra lever-
age that makes it possible to over tighten
blade. Ensure you do not overtighten blade
or the blade will break.